10 Common Travel Mistakes to Avoid in Paris, According to a Local

Traveling to Paris can be a dream come true, but even seasoned travelers can make mistakes when navigating this beautiful city. A local Parisian shares ten common pitfalls and how you can avoid them to ensure your trip is as smooth and enjoyable as possible.

1. Not Greeting Properly

In Paris, politeness is paramount. Always say “Bonjour” (or “Bonsoir” in the evening) when entering shops, restaurants, or even when asking for directions. Eye contact is encouraged to acknowledge the person you are addressing. Failing to do so can be seen as rude and may result in poor service. Similarly, remember to use “S’il vous plaît” (please) and “Merci” (thank you) frequently. This small gesture of respect can significantly enhance your interactions.

2. Expecting Immediate Service in Restaurants

Dining in Paris is a leisurely affair. Don’t expect the bill or water to be brought to your table automatically. You’ll often need to ask for tap water (“une carafe d’eau, s’il vous plaît”) and request the bill (“l’addition, s’il vous plaît”) when you’re ready to leave. French dining culture values savoring the meal and company, so relax and enjoy the experience. Remember, it’s about quality time, not rushing through the meal.

3. Forgetting to Make Restaurant Reservations

Many popular restaurants in Paris require reservations, sometimes weeks in advance. Dining rooms are often smaller and more intimate, focusing on quality over quantity. To avoid disappointment, plan ahead and book your tables online. This is particularly important for top-rated or Michelin-starred eateries. If you have your heart set on a particular place, a little planning goes a long way in ensuring you get to enjoy your desired culinary experiences.

4. Visiting During August or December

Many Parisian restaurants and shops close in August for summer vacation and in December for the holidays. If your main goal is to explore the local food scene, consider visiting outside these months. However, monuments and museums remain open year-round, so if these are your priorities, you can still have a great time. Note that August can be quieter and less crowded, offering a different, more relaxed vibe.

5. Drinking Coffee at Tourist Cafés

Paris is known for its charming corner cafés, but these are often more about the ambiance than the quality of the coffee. For a superior coffee experience, seek out specialty coffee shops that focus on high-quality beans and expert brewing techniques. Places like Café de Flore and Les Deux Magots are famous, but newer, artisanal coffee shops like Café Lomi or KB CaféShop offer a better brew for true coffee aficionados.

6. Choosing a Baguette Instead of a Tradition

At the bakery, ask for a “tradition” instead of a regular baguette. A “tradition” is made with stricter regulations and higher-quality ingredients, resulting in a tastier bread. It is typically hand-crafted and baked on-site, offering a more authentic flavor. Enjoy it fresh from the oven for an authentic Parisian treat. The extra effort to get a tradition is worth the superior taste and texture.

7. Eating or Drinking on the Go

Parisians typically don’t eat or drink while walking. Meals and beverages are meant to be savored. If you’re in a hurry, opt for a quick sandwich, but avoid munching on the go to blend in with the locals. You’ll notice that locals take the time to sit and enjoy their meals, whether at a café or on a park bench. This practice reflects the French appreciation for food and the experience of eating.

8. Touching Items Without Permission

Whether at a market or a boutique, always ask before touching items. Vendors take great pride in their displays, and handling goods without permission can be seen as disrespectful. Simply catch the seller’s eye and ask to see or touch the item. This is particularly important in markets and antique shops, where items may be delicate or valuable. Respect for the vendor’s property is highly regarded.

9. Mismanaging Metro Tickets

If using paper metro tickets, keep them until you exit the station. You may be fined if you can’t show a valid ticket during random inspections. Consider buying a multi-day pass if you plan to use the metro frequently, but remember that many attractions are within walking distance of each other. The metro system is efficient, but exploring Paris on foot can be equally rewarding, allowing you to discover hidden gems along the way.

10. Trying to Hail a Taxi in the Street

In Paris, it’s best to find a taxi at a designated stand rather than hailing one in the street. Alternatively, use a ride-sharing app like Uber for convenience. Official taxis display a “Taxi Parisien” sign, and rates from the airports are fixed: €56 from Charles de Gaulle to the Right Bank and €65 to the Left Bank; from Orly, it’s €36 to the Left Bank and €44 to the Right Bank. Knowing these fixed rates can help you avoid overpaying for your ride.